failed
Americanadjective
Etymology
Origin of failed
First recorded in 1650–60; fail ( def. ) + -ed 2 ( def. )
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A lawsuit failed to halt the event, but hot weather and thunderstorms expected to sweep across the city on Sunday could dampen the spectacle, or send some of those thousands rushing for cover.
From BBC • Jun. 14, 2026
In three previous World Cups, the Elephants failed to advance out of the group stage.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 14, 2026
Sweden had a curious route to the tournament, having failed to win a single match in the qualifying group phase.
From Barron's • Jun. 14, 2026
On Thursday, both the House and Senate failed to pass extensions before heading home for the weekend.
From Slate • Jun. 13, 2026
“Yes, she came to the Mutton and he failed to tell me about it. That’s old news.”
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
